How To Get A Smoothing Riding Horse Trailer To Keep Horses Happy

Updated 05/26/2021 | Published 05/23/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Karrier KR03 ST225/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(2348)

$142.40

Karrier ST205/75R15 KR03 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D

(2348)

$123.60

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(823)

$87.80

Dexter Trailer Springs Over-Under Conversion Kit

(823)

$97.98

Roadmaster Comfort Ride Shock Absorbers for Tandem Axle Trailers - 3,500-lb Axle

(200)

$860.00

Roadmaster Comfort Ride Shock Absorbers for Tandem Axle Trailers - 5,200-lb to 7,000-lb Axle

(200)

$860.00

Question:

If I have a horse trailer that weighs 3500 pounds and carries 3 horses at about 1200 pounds a piece. But mostly carry two horses. What tires would give the horses a softer ride D or E rated? Im thinking D rated? Also what would that bumps in the road better 15inch tires or 16inch tires? Im also thinking 16inch diameter tires. Because of the larger diameter? Thanks!

asked by: Paige R

Expert Reply:

In general a load range D tire will have a softer ride than a load range E tire of the same size due to the additional air pressure and plys on the E tire. Also a tire with a taller sidewall will have a softer ride.

Keep in mind that you will want to match the load rating to the weight you are carrying, which in your case is up to 7100lbs. For a tandem axle trailer the Karrier ST205/75R15 Radial Trailer Tire - Load Range D # AM10245 with a load rating of 2150lbs at 65 PSI would be plenty.

Honestly you will not notice that much a difference between the load ranges and tires when it comes to being bumpy, and your best option to get a smoother ride would be Roadmaster Comfort Ride Shock Absorbers for Tandem Axle Trailers # RM-2450 if you have 2-3/8" diameter axles, or the # RM-2460 if you have 3" diameter axles. Both of these options do a great job of absorbing bumps due to the nitrogen charged shocks, and since the shocks limit lateral movement they will also help prevent sway.

Both options will require the leaf springs on the trailer to be above the axle, so if yours are not you will also need an over-under kit # K71-384-00 if you have 2-3/8" diameter axles or # K71-385-00 if you have 3" diameter axles.

I included videos of the products mentioned for you to take a look at.